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HP Inc. has unveiled a leadership transition that will bring former GSK chief executive Emma Walmsley to the helm of the technology company on January 4, 2027.

The appointment was unanimously approved by HP's Board of Directors. Walmsley will replace Bruce Broussard, who has held the CEO position on an interim basis since February 2026. Broussard is scheduled to take over as Chairman of the Board from Chip Bergh on the same date.

Leadership Transition Amid the Rise of AI

Broussard said HP is entering a critical period for the technology industry and needs leadership that can translate its innovation legacy into future business opportunities.

He described Walmsley as an experienced executive with a record of guiding large organisations through substantial change. He also highlighted the growing importance of AI-enabled devices and their impact on working patterns and everyday life.

Walmsley said she intends to build on HP's position in the global technology sector by focusing on the opportunities emerging from artificial intelligence. She added that innovation will remain central to creating new growth avenues and long-term value for the company's stakeholders.

A Nearly Nine-Year Transformation at GSK

Walmsley led GSK from April 2017 until December 2025, overseeing a period of significant strategic and operational change.

During her leadership, the company strengthened its focus on specialty medicines and vaccines, advanced its research and development pipeline, and reinforced its financial position following the separation of its consumer healthcare business.

She also worked to strengthen GSK's senior management team and prepare future leaders.

Walmsley joined GSK in 2010 and was appointed CEO of its Consumer Healthcare division in 2015. Earlier in her career, she spent 17 years at L'Oréal, building and managing major international consumer businesses.

In addition to her executive background, she has been a member of Microsoft's Board of Directors for seven years.

Board Changes Following Global Executive Search

Bergh said the selection process involved a comprehensive international search designed to identify the leadership profile required for HP's next phase.

He pointed to Walmsley's experience across multiple industries, strategic judgement and customer-focused approach as key factors behind the decision.

Bergh also recognised Broussard's contribution during the interim leadership period, saying it enabled the board to complete a careful search and selection process.

Broussard, in turn, credited Bergh with leading HP's board for nine years and guiding the company through major changes while maintaining a focus on governance, capital allocation and value creation.

Bergh will continue as Chairman until January 4, 2027, when Broussard will assume the position and provide support to Walmsley and the board during the transition and beyond.